Oti Mabuse Embraces Competitive Spirit of Ireland’s ‘Dancing with the Stars’

Two-time Strictly Come Dancing champion Oti Mabuse has praised the fierce competition among contestants on RTÉ One’s Dancing with the Stars, calling it “so refreshing.” Mabuse, who joined the judging panel for the show’s ninth series, replacing Loraine Barry, is joined by judges Brian Redmond, Arthur Gourounlian, and Karen Byrne.

A Warm Welcome from the Judging Panel

Mabuse expressed her gratitude for the welcoming atmosphere fostered by her fellow judges. “I genuinely do enjoy it. I too think it’s because of Brian, Karen, and Arthur. I would not have been able to do it without them,” she stated in an interview with RTÉ Entertainment. She highlighted the support of Karen Byrne, who recently joined the panel herself, and Arthur Gourounlian, whom she described as a close friend.

“Karen and Arthur know what it feels like to be new in that position. Karen only started last year, so she’s been really kind, and we have so much fun,” Mabuse shared. She also credited Brian Redmond with guiding her through the nuances of the show, playfully referring to him as her “tour guide.”

Collaborative Atmosphere and Competitive Contestants

Mabuse emphasized the collaborative spirit among the judges, stating, “I think it’s best not to have any sort of hierarchy – we’re all equal, and we’re all meeting for the first time. I genuinely want everyone in the country to watch this show and to produce a good show.”

She was particularly struck by the competitive drive of the Irish contestants and presenters, recounting a conversation with Laura Fox and Jen Zamparelli regarding their team dances. “I was talking last night to Laura [Fox] and Jen [Zamparelli] – they were so into their team dances and really competitive with it, and I love that,” Mabuse noted.

Mabuse also explained her approach to judging, prioritizing observation of the contestants’ performances. “With the celebs, I don’t get to spend time with them outside rehearsals because I want to judge them solely on what I see. I want to get to know them through dance first, and then, when I’m not judging, we can have brilliant conversations.”

Previous Judging Experience

Prior to Dancing with the Stars, Mabuse served as a panellist on The Masked Dancer and as a judge on Dancing on Ice from 2022 to 2025.

Broadcast Details

Dancing with the Stars airs on Sundays at 6:30pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.